A yoga posture is called an a'sana in sanskrit, which means "A posture comfortably held."

A'sanas are composed of smooth, slow motions and held postures. During their practice, the body remains in a state of relaxed efficiency, and the deep breathing which naturally accompanies them carries more oxygen to the bloodstream. During a'sanas, energy is accumulated and the body refreshed.

A'sanas benefit all of the body systems. The twisting and bending which these postures involve placing pressure on the endocrine glands, helping them to function in a more balanced manner. The result is improved functioning of the entire organism, including its growth, digestive, repair, and waste processes. In addition, since hormonal secretions affect emotions, a'sanas, by balancing these secretions, gradually help to bring emotional disturbances under control. Thus a'sanas relieve the mind of many upsetting influences, and mental composure is attained. A'sanas have many other benefits: they relax and tone up the muscles and nervous system, stimulate circulation, limber the Joints, stretch ligaments, improve digestion and massage the internal organs.

For a well-balanced, integrated life, a person should develop in three aspects: physical, mental and spiritual. Meditation calms and controls the mind and elevates the spirit; a'sanas and proper diet purify and refine the body so that its development may not lag behind that of the mind. Through the discipline of a'sanas, the practitioner gradually learns to keep the mind and body poised in all situations. A perfectly functioning body and a mind free from emotional disturbances.: ...this is the aim of a'sanas.